Last week, Toronto’s Fairview Mall became home to one of Canada’s first Calvin Klein lifestyle stores. Forty more are planned to open across Canada over the next five years. Clearly the Calvin Klein empire shows no signs of slowing. In fact, the company recently reported growth in revenue despite the current struggling economy. Diversity definitely seems to be a key to the company’s success. Calvin Klein is one of the most recognizable brands in the world, and it touches just about every aspect of the lifestyle market. From underwear to home furnishings, you name it and Calvin Klein has probably covered it. A pretty impressive feat considering when they first opened in 1968 they sold only coats.

The company’s wide range of brands certainly keeps its Global Creative Director, Kevin Carrigan, a very busy man. Since 2004, Carrigan has overseen many of the company’s divisions including Calvin Klein, ck Calvin Klein, Calvin Klein Jeans, and most recently the launch of their new Calvin Klein lifestyle stores.

The new 6,100 square foot Fairview location offers a full range of the brand’s lifestyle goodies. Men and women’s wear, jeanswear, underwear, accessories, footwear, eyewear, fragrance, leather goods and bags — all designed under the direction of Carrigan. The Calvin Klein label, which is separate from the runway’s “Collection” label, offers more affordable, youthful targeted designs. Carrigan describes the current Fall 2011 line as being “all about a refined nonchalance. Inspired by skin, from its colours to its textures, the season features pale neutrals, soft fabrics including felt, flannel and cashmere … skin influences also emerge in a play on faux versus real leather.”

Calvin Klein now joins the ranks of J. Crew and Topshop as another out-of-market brand that has crossed the border to add to our retail landscape. When asked about his feelings on Calvin Klein’s expansion in Canada Carrigan says, “I am thrilled … Our brand will be a perfect fit with the Canadian lifestyle and culture. Canadians understand fashion and will appreciate not only the beauty in our designs, but also their form and functionality.”